Beef stew is a timeless classic that has been cherished for generations. Known for its tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and rich, flavorful broth, this dish is the epitome of comfort food. Perfect for cold days or family gatherings, this recipe brings warmth and satisfaction to the table with every spoonful. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a cozy meal, this hearty beef stew is sure to impress.
Ingrédients
To prepare a hearty and flavorful beef stew, you will need the following ingredients. These have been carefully chosen to balance rich flavors and wholesome nutrition:
2 lbs (900g) beef chuck roast, cut into bite-sized cubes
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour, for coating the beef
2 tablespoons olive oil, for browning the meat
1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced or finely chopped
4 cups (1 liter) beef broth, preferably low-sodium for better flavor control
1 cup (240ml) red wine, optional but recommended for depth of flavor (can substitute with extra beef broth if you prefer)
2 tablespoons tomato paste, to enhance richness
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce, for a savory kick
2 bay leaves, for aromatic flavor
1 teaspoon dried thyme, or 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, for a hint of smoky warmth
4 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced into large chunks
4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into large cubes
2 celery stalks, sliced into 1-inch pieces
1 cup frozen peas (optional, added at the end for color and sweetness)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Beef
1. Begin by patting the beef cubes dry with paper towels. This step is crucial to ensure the beef browns properly rather than steaming.
2. Season the beef generously with salt and black pepper. Toss the seasoned beef cubes in the flour, ensuring they are evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour.
Step 2: Browning the Beef
1. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the floured beef cubes in small batches, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Sear each piece for 2–3 minutes per side until a deep brown crust forms.
3. Remove the browned beef from the pot and set it aside on a plate. Repeat with the remaining beef cubes.
Step 3: Sautéing the Aromatics
1. Reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onion to the same pot. Sauté for 4–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t burn. The fragrance should intensify at this point.
Step 4: Building the Base Flavor
1. Add the tomato paste to the pot, stirring it into the onion and garlic mixture. Cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing the paste to caramelize slightly for a richer flavor.
2. Pour in the red wine (if using), scraping the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to deglaze and release all the flavorful browned bits. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the wine reduces slightly.
Step 5: Combining Ingredients
1. Return the browned beef cubes to the pot, along with any juices that have accumulated on the plate.
2. Pour in the beef broth, ensuring the liquid covers the beef completely. Add the Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, thyme, and smoked paprika. Stir well to combine.
Step 6: Simmering the Stew
1. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let the stew simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
2. After 1 hour of simmering, check the beef for tenderness. It should begin to feel fork-tender but not yet fall apart.
Step 7: Adding Vegetables
1. After the beef has simmered for about 1.5 hours, add the carrots, potatoes, and celery to the pot. Stir to ensure the vegetables are submerged in the liquid.
2. Continue cooking for another 30–40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but not mushy.
Step 8: Final Touches
1. If you are adding frozen peas, stir them into the stew during the last 5–7 minutes of cooking. They will cook quickly and retain their vibrant green color.
2. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
Step 9: Serving
1. Remove the bay leaves from the stew and discard them. Ladle the hot stew into bowls, ensuring each portion has a generous amount of beef, vegetables, and broth.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the stew with crusty bread or over buttered egg noodles, if desired.
Conclusion
This beef stew recipe is a perfect blend of tender meat, hearty vegetables, and a deeply flavorful broth. Its slow-cooking process allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully, resulting in a dish that is as comforting as it is satisfying.
Whether served as a cozy family meal or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. The addition of red wine adds depth and sophistication, while the classic combination of potatoes, carrots, and celery ensures a timeless appeal.
Feel free to personalize the recipe by incorporating other vegetables, such as parsnips or mushrooms, or adjusting the seasonings to suit your taste. This dish is not only versatile but also an excellent way to enjoy a warm and hearty meal on a chilly evening.
Enjoy the process of creating this classic dish, and savor the rewarding flavors of homemade beef stew!
